What does narrowing of the carotid artery mean?

See below: Carotid artery narrowing means that the carotid arteries have blockage, usually in the form of atherosclerosis. In the absence of neurological symptoms, most cases can be handled with medicine and close periodic follow up by a vascular surgeon. However, if the blockage is more than 80%, surgery will reduce the risk of stroke. In special instances, carotid angioplasty and stent may be an option.

Decreased blood flow: Narrowing of the carotid artery most often comes from calcium build-up, or hardening of the artery. If no symptoms are present, once it gets to 60-70% it needs to be cleaned out to prevent stroke.

Atherosclerosis: The atherosclerotic plaque builds up at the bifurcation="branch point of the common carotid into external( face) and internal(brain) components. It may remain asymptomatic or may cause TIA or stroke. Commonly a significant narrowing is 80-99% there is a large medical scientific literature on this subject.